Abstract
Understanding the mechanics and mechanisms of fracture in structural engineering materials is critical to the prevention of catastrophic failure, and to the development of new materials that are both strong and tough. In this review paper a unified approach based upon energy methods is presented for the measurement of the specific essential work of fracture in a range of engineering materials including metals, polymers, ceramics, cementitious materials and composites. The inter-relations between fracture mechanisms and essential fracture work are highlighted. The development of the crack growth resistance curve, the effect of rate, temperature and hostile environment on fracture propagation as well as the fracture properties of small cracks are illustrated with examples.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 232-267 |
| Number of pages | 36 |
| Journal | Materials Forum |
| Volume | 11 |
| Publication status | Published - 1988 |
| Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Mechanics of Materials
- Mechanical Engineering